Graphic art is trendy. Contemporary artists quench their thirst for expression with 3D sculpture technologies and create immensely realistic characters and creatures

Image by Aeskawa

What is so unusual about 3D sculptures?

The process mimics the actual clay sculpting. It is a drastically new approach to creating 3D models. The 3D sculpture software offers a brush-based UI instead of polygons manipulation. Artists deform the mesh of components. They pull and push it to add forms.

Brush tools operate similarly to their real-life prototype. Therefore, they are convenient to use for creating organic shapes at astonishing speed. As the result, the embodiment of 3D ideas is very close to the natural process.

Image by Jan Jinda

Why is it a hot topic?

Digital sculpting is trendy because it is easy to use the tools and it delivers a lot of fun. There is no need to wrap your head around the complex geometry of the polygonal mesh. The process is much more creative than ordinary 3D modeling. Starting with a basic model or just a shape, you can create an artwork layer-by-layer. It gives everyone the opportunity to prove himself or herself as an artist with less effort and more joy.

Image by Darrell Abney

What can you incarnate?

A 3D sculpture is perfect for designing organic objects with soft surface. Monsters, creatures, animals, aliens or any other characters – all of them look their best when sculpted.

Image by Theverge

Yes, it’s a screenshot from the upcoming film about a famous Marvel villain. Venom wouldn’t be so realistic without digital sculpting technologies. Or, it could take ten times more work to achieve such deep details of the main character’s look. We can easily see how high-quality it is by watching the trailer.

Where can 3D sculptures be used?

This technology is used in creating the following content with massive visual effects:

• games;
• TV shows;
• films;
• music videos.

Furthermore, no one keeps you from printing your 3D ideas. Just convert the files to make them suitable for a 3D printer. Now you’re just one step away from printing a personal sculpture collection.

What is the best software for creating 3D sculptures?

As always, there are many applications for out there built for different purposes. Maya, ZBrush, Modo, etc. – you can choose whatever suits you and your budget. You can check out the full list of free and chargeable 3D sculpting software at All3DP. The interfaces differ, but the core principles of sculpting are the same.

What are the main trends in 3D sculpting?

The competition for the most realistic human anatomy engulfed the whole community. Designers all over the world try their best to make a human sculpture look as realistic as possible.

Fictional creatures are relevant now as well. Most of their bodies are similar to human ones. These trends are developing in parallel.

Image by Jakub Chechelski

How can you join the artist community?

Any trend is the basis for numerous contests, challenges, and exhibitions. Check out the SculptJanuary 2018. It’s a 30-day challenge for everyday 3D sculpting! People focus on developing their skills and sharing their results online every single day. Some of them even get prizes for their skills and dedication (in this case, the prizes are graphics tablets).

Why can it be interesting for beginners?

Some of these contests (just like SculptJanuary 2018) pick the winners randomly. It means the chances are equal for everyone, including beginners. Everybody is passionate about art can participate.

However, experienced designers and artists still take part in these events as well. There are always decent artworks in the contests that can inspire you.

Image by Kasita

What about lessons, tutorials, courses?

A community of digital sculptors isn’t that huge for now. Despite this, you can still manage to find much-needed YouTube tutorials. Udemy courses are also there for you.

Image by Nikolay Sladkov

The Bottom Line

3D sculpting is popular, exciting and joyful. Outstanding technologies are always in demand. If you have a passion for art, make sure you don’t miss out on this trend.